Edge Lit - Aluminum Channels

The installation of your LED aluminum channel will depend on the specific extrusion you choose and where you plan to install it. Common mounting methods include using adhesive backing, mounting brackets, or double-sided tape. Adhesive backings and double-sided tape are ideal for installations on walls, cabinets, and bookshelves. Mounting brackets are best for installation in wet environments and for heavy duty-channels. 

You can cut aluminum LED channels using a power saw, sawzall, or hacksaw. For power saws, use a non-ferrous metal blade or a standard metal blade. You can cut the plastic lens covers with scissors. 

Before attaching your strip light to a channel, make sure your strip light is narrower or the same width as the channel. To attach LED strip lights into an aluminum extrusion, measure out the length of your strip light to the nearest cuttable segment. Cut your strip light to fit into the channel and fit all wiring through the necessary end caps. Peel the adhesive backing from the strip light and stick it to the channel interior. 

Yes, you can put LED strip lights on metal. Metals like aluminum act as a heat sink for the strip lights and draw heat away from the LED’s internal components. For higher-power strip lights, it is recommended to use an aluminum channel as a heat sink to efficiently transfer heat. If used properly, metal strip light extrusions will not overheat.  

Aluminum extrusions can turn your strip lights into professional lighting fixtures for residential or commercial settings. You can use LED aluminum channels for a variety of purposes including under-cabinet lighting, bookshelf lighting, cove lighting, and stair lighting. Waterproof extrusions allow you to install strip lights outdoors or in wet environments, like bathrooms and kitchens.

Whether or not your LED lights need a dimmer depends on your strip lights' application and desired appearance. If you want to reduce glare and hotspots, you can use clear or frosted lenses to diffuse the light. Adding a diffuser lens can also help protect your LED strip lights from dust and debris by sealing in your lights from their environment.

KLUS is an industry leader in creating innovative lighting solutions. They are committed to making high-quality aluminum channels for LED strip lights that follow a sleek, modern design. KLUS offers a variety of accessories, mounting brackets, and lenses to complete your strip light fixture. Read all the ways you can use KLUS channels here.